Hiring a removalist

While no one enjoys the hassles associated with moving, there are certain things you can do to help ensure your move runs smoothly. Before hiring a removalist, read on for some useful information and tips.

Compare services

Make sure you shop around and compare a few services first. Take the time to thoroughly research your options so that you can be confident you are getting a quality removalist service for the right price. You may like to:

read through customer reviews on independent websites to help you compare

ask friends and family to recommend a reputable removalist, one which they, or a friend of theirs, have used and were happy with

check whether the removalist is accredited by the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA).

Quotes and contracts

Quote

Always ask for a written quote before hiring a removalist company. To help the removalist provide you with an accurate quote, make sure you provide them with detailed information about your moving needs.

Ensure the quote provided is itemised and the removalist can account for every charge. If something is not clear or you require further information about certain charges, make sure you receive clarification before accepting the quote.

Contract

As with any other contract that you may enter into, make sure you have read and clearly understand it. Ensure that the contract contains:

complete details of the service being provided

the pick up and delivery address, dates and times of the move

a household inventory of goods being moved (visit the AFRA website for an example of a household inventory list)

details of insurance for any loss or damage.

Always read carefully the terms and conditions of any contract and check for hidden costs. Be wary of pre-payment or providing credit card details upfront in case you need to cancel or change your mind.

Insurance for your move

It is worthwhile arranging insurance for your move to cover your household goods in the case of damage or loss.

Removalists are not required by law to provide insurance for your things during a move. Most removalist companies only have insurance that covers their vehicle if an accident occurs. However, if the removalist company is accredited with AFRA, they will have Public Liability Insurance and are authorised to provide transit insurance for all goods being moved.

Transit cover insures your goods while they are being packed and moved by removalists, including any storage in the course of the move. If your goods need to be stored, you can extend your transit insurance to cover those goods during the storage period. This however will attract a separate premium.

If you are having problems

If your move does not go to plan or you are not satisfied with the service that you have received, the first step is to make every effort to sort out the problem directly with the removalist.

State what the problem is and how you would like it fixed. Make sure you put all your concerns in writing and keep all relevant documents such as signed contracts, receipts and quotes.

If you do not reach a satisfactory outcome, contact NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20. You can also make an enquiry or lodge a complaint via our website. We provide free information about your rights and options to solve the dispute.

Well-informed consumers have a far better chance of successfully asserting their rights.